The Hanford Police Department is currently investigating a fatal drive-by shooting in the area of 10th Avenue and Lacey Boulevard. HPD reports that its officers responded to the area around 1 p.m. on October 23, 2024 and saw a white Honda stopped at the southeast corner of the intersection.

Police say bullet holes were found in the driver’s side of the vehicle and 23-year-old Cruz David Avalos was in the driver’s seat. Authorities say Avalos was transported to Adventist Health Hanford where he succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators say they identified the involved suspect vehicle as a black Nissan Versa. Witness statements identified the suspect as a 16-year-old Hanford male, according to HPD. The juvenile was arrested by the Kings County Sheriff’s Office after another shooting in Santa Rosa Rancheria on October 24.

Police say the juvenile is considered a victim in that case. The juvenile was booked into King County Juvenile Center on firearm charges in addition to the homicide charge related to HPD’s case.

Investigators say it has now been determined that the 16-year-old is not the suspect in the fatal shooting of Cruz Avalos. He is remains in custody on firearms charges, but is no longer being charged in the death of Avalos.

HPD asks anyone with information to call Detective K. Smith at 559-585-2540.